A spectacular Viking torch-lit march is to take place in Glasgow city centre tonight (January 22).
The march is being hosted by Celtic Connections as part of a celebration of Shetland 550, celebrating the Islands' unique music and heritage, with February marking 550 years since Shetland was annexed from Norway to Scotland.
It will take place prior the first of two specially-commissioned Shetland 550: Norn Voices concerts at Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, which will bring together a host of Shetland’s foremost cultural ambassadors, plus some of their closest musical pals.
The marchers are scheduled to leave Albion Street in the Merchant City at 6pm before arriving at Buchanan Street half an hour later, with a display being held at the bottom of the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall steps from 6:30pm to 7pm.
More than 30 male and female Vikings will be on hand to welcome audiences to the Concert Hall with flaming torches, cheers and songs celebrating Up Helly Aa.
This year’s hybrid Celtic Connections programme - the 29th edition of Europe’s premier winter music festival - spans around 60 lively in-person concerts, a number of intimate filming sessions and an exciting digital offering, with more than 500 artists involved across the festival.
The festival will run until Sunday February 6.
For the programme line-up and to purchase tickets visit www.celticconnections.com
